If you’re looking to buy a kettlebell, you probably want to know who makes the best kettlebells. It’s a common question, but the answer depends on what you value most in your equipment.
We’ll break down the top brands by their strengths, from budget-friendly picks to premium competition bells. This guide will help you choose the right one for your goals and wallet.
Who Makes The Best Kettlebells
No single company is best for everyone. The “best” kettlebell maker for you depends on several key factors. Think about your training style, experience level, and budget before deciding.
Here are the main types of brands you’ll encounter:
- Premium Fitness Brands: Known for excellent quality and consistency.
- Specialist Kettlebell Companies: They focus only on kettlebells, often with innovative designs.
- Value-Oriented Brands: Offer solid quality at a more accessible price point.
- Competition-Specific Brands: Made for the sport of kettlebell lifting, with strict standards.
Top Contenders for the Best Kettlebell Makers
Let’s look at specific brands that consistently get high marks from users and coaches.
Rogue Fitness
Rogue is a powerhouse in the strength world. Their kettlebells, like the E-Coated and Powder Coat lines, are incredibly durable and have a great feel. The powder coat provides a secure grip, even with sweaty hands. They are a top choice for home gyms and commercial use alike due to their rugged construction.
Kettlebell Kings
As the name suggests, this company specializes in kettlebells. They are famous for their precise weight accuracy and comfortable handle geometry. Their competition kettlebells are used by many athletes. They also offer great package deals, which can save you money when buying a set.
Rep Fitness
Rep provides excellent value. Their kettlebells feature a flat, wide handle that’s gentle on the hands during high-rep swings. The price is often lower than other premium brands, making them a fantastic option for someone wanting quality without the highest cost.
Onnit
Onnit’s classic cast iron kettlebells have a unique hexagonal base that prevents rolling. This is a nice safety feature, especially in a crowded home gym. They also have a primal aesthetic that some users really like. The handles are well-smoothed to minimize hot spots.
Competition Bells: Kettlebell Sport Brands
For the sport of kettlebell lifting (Girevoy Sport), brands like Kettlebell Kings Competition and Viking Kettlebells are top-tier. All competition bells are the same size regardless of weight, which is crucial for technique. They have a thinner handle and a polished finish for efficient movement during long sets.
What Makes a Kettlebell “The Best”?
To judge quality, you need to know what to look for. Here are the critical features that seperate good bells from great ones.
- Handle Comfort & Diameter: The handle should be smooth without sharp seams. The diameter should fit your hand comfortably for both one and two-handed exercises.
- Weight Accuracy: A 16kg bell should be exactly 16kg. Cheaper brands can be significantly off, which messes with your progres.
- Construction & Finish: The finish (powder coat, e-coat, enamel) affects grip and durability. It should be even and chip-resistant.
- Base Flatness: The bell should sit completely flat on the floor. A wobbly base is annoying and can be unsafe.
- Price & Value: The best bell for you balances upfront cost with long-term durability. Sometimes paying a bit more saves money over years.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Your Kettlebell
Follow these steps to make a confident decision.
- Determine Your Primary Use. Are you doing hardstyle swings and strength work, or sport-style long-cycle lifts? This decides the bell type.
- Set Your Budget. Know how much you can spend. Remember, a good kettlebell can last a lifetime, so its an investment.
- Check Handle Specs. If you have smaller or larger hands, look for brands that list their handle diameters. This is crucial for comfort.
- Read User Reviews. Look for consistent feedback on quality control, finish durability, and customer service. Not just the star rating.
- Consider Shipping Costs. Kettlebells are heavy! Factor shipping into the total price, as it can sometimes double the cost of a single bell.
- Start with One or Two. For most beginners, a 16kg (35lb) for men and a 12kg (26lb) for women is a good starting point for swings. You can add more later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying
Steer clear of these pitfalls to ensure you get a good product.
- Buying by Color Alone: Some cheap brands use paint that chips easily or feels sticky. Focus on the finish type, not just the color.
- Ignoring the Handle: A poorly finished handle with seams will tear up your hands. Always feel the handle if possible, or read reviews about it.
- Choosing a Vinyl-Coated Kettlebell: These are often filled with sand or cement and can break. They also have a bouncy, unstable feel. Stick with solid cast iron or steel.
- Forgetting About Space: If you have limited space, a bell with a flat bottom (like from Rep or Onnit) stacks more neatly than a round-bottomed bell.
FAQ: Your Kettlebell Questions Answered
What brand of kettlebell is most recommended by professionals?
Many coaches and gyms recommend Rogue for general strength training due to their durability. For sport-specific training, Kettlebell Kings is often the go-to.
Are expensive kettlebells worth it?
Usually, yes. They offer better consistency, safer construction, and a more comfortable handle. This leads to better training and less wear on your hands.
Is there a difference between men’s and womens kettlebells?
Not inherently. The difference is typically in the starting weight chosen. The design and quality standards are the same across genders. Choose a weight appropriate for your current strength level.
Where are most kettlebells made?
Many are manufactured in China, but the quality control from the selling brand makes the big difference. Some premium brands produce in the USA or Europe, which often comes with a higher price tag.
Can I just buy the cheapest kettlebell I find?
You can, but you risk getting a poorly cast bell with an uncomfortable handle, inaccurate weight, and a finish that chips. This can hinder your training and need replacing sooner.
Final Thoughts on Picking a Maker
The search for who makes the best kettlebells ends with your personal needs. For most people, brands like Rogue, Kettlebell Kings, and Rep Fitness offer the ideal blend of quality, feel, and price.
Start by identifying you primary use and budget. Then, focus on handle comfort and construction quality. Investing in a well-made kettlebell from a reputable company enhances your training and will serve you reliably for years to come. Take your time to research, and you’ll find the perfect fit.